Book Reviews
by Rachel Marks • Huntington, NY

GOD WITHOUT RELIGION
Questioning Centuries of Accepted Truths
by Sankara Saranam
BenBella Books, 2005
800-888-4741, $14.95
Bold, blunt and blazing with rebel spirit, former monk Sankara Saranam, leaves no stone unturned in this compelling critique of organized religion, presenting a unique alternative path for those disillusioned with traditional religious dogma. He claims the freedom to doubt, challenge and explore the Divine expands the Self, directly leading to a more authentic relationship with God. Fascinating theories of “intuitive” development are offered along with meditations and affirmations to jump-start the process. Steering us away from the quagmire of New Age movements, which may also promote exclusivity and narrow-mindedness, Saranam contrasts virtuous behaviors imposed by religious edicts with those generating connection to others, naturally arising out of inner development. A bit academic but read slowly it conveys gems of insight, which you will want to read again and again.

HEALING WITH ENERGY
by Starr Fuentes
New Page Books, 2007
1-800-CAREER-1, $14.99
Surprisingly, the power to heal isn’t just reserved for the spiritually “well connected”; it’s also a skill that can be acquired. Master healer, Starr Fuentes, shows us how by distilling decades of esoteric study into this easy to follow, practical guide to the foundations of the healing process. In this “healers toolbox,” featuring 40 illustrated techniques for mental/spiritual/ emotional healing, Fuentes provides a clear explanation of energy fields and flow according to quantum physics. While it won’t replace years of study, the guide is a handy resource for practitioners to fine-tune their skills or expand their practice. It also serves as an introduction for the aspiring healer. But the book’s value, lies in its intention: keeping the healer on track by maintaining session integrity in order to be a more effective conduit of Source.

THE PASSION PRINCIPLE
by Donna LeBlanc, M.Ed.
Health Communications, Inc.
www.bcibooks.com. $12.95
I’m not exactly a fan of the term “self-help.” Associations of psychobabble peddlers and Pollyannaish platitudes usually come to mind. But unlike most authors of this genre, Donna LeBlanc grasps that genuine self-help involves more than just “fixing.” Using archetypes of the Warrior, Visionary, Creator and Prophet she coins “passion signatures” which reveal how the unique way we handle our own energy, influences the quality of our relationships. By defining these models, identifying their gifts as well as destructive patterns of interaction, she provides tools to radically transform one’s romantic, work, family and social life.

Clearly written and grounded with relatable personal stories, this substantial book offers practical advice wisely, compassionately and insightfully. Best of all, The Passion Principle focuses more on your potential and evolution rather than your flaws and dysfunction.

Rachel Marks has worked as an editor of community newspapers, trade magazines and in public television, and is active in social justice and environmental campaigns.